Notes To My (Legal) Self Season 10, Episode 4: Courts Belong to the People (with Sonja Ebron)
What happens when justice is truly accessible to all? In this episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, we dive into "Courts Belong to the People" with Sonja Ebron, CEO of Courtroom5, as part of The Future Belongs to Builders series. Sonja, a PhD electrical engineer and former college professor, shares her unique journey into the legal world after representing herself in court numerous times. She founded Courtroom5 to empower people to navigate the legal system, addressing the pressing issue of access to justice for those unable to afford legal representation.
Sonja’s insights take us deep into the barriers that prevent fair access to justice, including the complexities of legal procedures, power imbalances in the courtroom, and how strategic litigation can make all the difference. She also discusses how her platform, Courtroom5, helps pro se litigants (those representing themselves) overcome these challenges, offering tools, resources, and education to help them stand up to opposing parties, many of whom are represented by experienced lawyers.
This episode will provide you with:
- A deeper understanding of the access to justice crisis and its impact on underrepresented communities.
- Insights into how non-lawyers can use litigation strategically to achieve their goals.
- An exploration of the role of justice tech in breaking down barriers to the legal system.
- Practical solutions for leveling the playing field in court.
Sonja also touches on the regulatory barriers like UPL (Unauthorized Practice of Law) that slow down legal innovation, and the potential of AI to improve access to justice. Whether you're a legal professional, a technologist, or someone passionate about making the legal system more equitable, this episode offers critical perspectives on reshaping the future of law.
Key Learning Outcomes:
- Recognize the power imbalance in the courtroom and how it disproportionately affects unrepresented individuals.
- Understand the role of justice tech and AI in expanding access to legal resources and education.
- Learn strategies for self-represented litigants to navigate complex legal procedures and use litigation to their advantage.
- Reflect on the regulatory changes needed to foster innovation and make the legal system more accessible.
Don't miss this engaging discussion with Sonja Ebron, a true advocate for access to justice. Join us and learn how we can make courts truly belong to the people.